OPTION Synonyms: 81 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'option' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of option are alternative , choice , election , preference , and selection . While all these words mean "the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen," option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed. // the option of paying now or later

Q: When is it sensible to use 'alternative' instead of 'option'?

In some situations, the words alternative and option are roughly equivalent. However, alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility. // equally attractive alternatives

Q: When could 'choice' be used to replace 'option'?

The words choice and option are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely. // freedom of choice

Q: When is 'election' a more appropriate choice than 'option'?

The meanings of election and option largely overlap; however, election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment. // doing a tax return forces certain elections on you

Q: Where would 'preference' be a reasonable alternative to 'option'?

While the synonyms preference and option are close in meaning, preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections. // a preference for cool weather

Q: When would 'selection' be a good substitute for 'option'?

Although the words selection and option have much in common, selection implies a range of choice. // a varied selection of furniture

option

noun

ˈäp-shən

Definition of option next

as in accessory

something that is not necessary in itself but adds to the convenience or performance of the main piece of equipment a slew of options that would add several thousand dollars to the base price of the car

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in choice

the power, right, or opportunity to choose you will have the option to select one of several quite different health insurance plans

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun option contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of option are alternative, choice, election, preference, and selection. While all these words mean "the act or opportunity of choosing or the thing chosen," option implies a power to choose that is specifically granted or guaranteed.

the option of paying now or later

When is it sensible to use alternative instead of option?

In some situations, the words alternative and option are roughly equivalent. However, alternative implies a need to choose one and reject another possibility.

equally attractive alternatives

When could choice be used to replace option?

The words choice and option are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, choice suggests the opportunity or privilege of choosing freely.

freedom of choice

When is election a more appropriate choice than option?

The meanings of election and option largely overlap; however, election implies an end or purpose which requires exercise of judgment.

doing a tax return forces certain elections on you

Where would preference be a reasonable alternative to option?

While the synonyms preference and option are close in meaning, preference suggests a choice guided by one's judgment or predilections.

a preference for cool weather

When would selection be a good substitute for option?

Although the words selection and option have much in common, selection implies a range of choice.

a varied selection of furniture

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of option This is probably not the option your dad wants to choose. —

Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 28 Jan. 2025 If your bathmat isn't up to par, consider replacing it with this top-selling option — 302 readers already have. —

Toni Sutton, People.com, 28 Jan. 2025 The cheaper alternative is to switch to physical storage, and this Dual USB 1TB Flash Drive is an excellent option for just $69.97 (reg. —

Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PCMAG, 28 Jan. 2025 Promoting school choice is fundamentally about promoting the broadest array of options possible, because, as everyone knows, kids are different, with different needs, interests, strengths and weaknesses. —

The Editorial Board, Orange County Register, 28 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for option

Recent Examples of Synonyms for option

Noun

What to expect: Name-brand men’s and women’s accessories, clothes, jewelry, shoes and home décor.

— Ashley Mahoney, Axios, 28 Jan. 2025
Upon her departure, the singer changed into a tweed skirt suit, keeping the same accessories.

— Hannah Malach, WWD, 28 Jan. 2025